Harriet works as a People Engagement Partner in the People Team at the University of Central Lancashire.
Meet Harriet
Harriet applied to UCLan after working in Human Resources for 10 years.
“Applying to UCLan I didn’t feel quite ready to entrust my protected characteristic, feeling attached to the stigma and wondering how this information could be used against me or to judge my capabilities I left the disability disclosure box blank."
"After being appointed to the People Engagement Partner role I had an initial meeting with my line manager. During this first conversation I felt comfortable enough to share my mental health condition and the impact of this on my daily life and at work. I explained, even though I had worked in Human Resources for 10 years, I didn’t know what happened with the protected characteristic disclosure information and felt this would affect my application."
"My line manager reassured that they would not be made aware of the disclosure and I was appointed to the role on merit. They were keen to understand how my disability impacted me, what support or reasonable adjustments could be offered and how best to make a forward plan.
I am glad I shared my disability with my line manager because taking a person centred approach to create a personalised work plan supported my disability and has enhanced my performance.”